Self-Managing NDIS Funds: What Can I Buy?

Published at 05-05-2025 11:33:01

Tags: #ForParticipants

1. When self-managing your NDIS plan, you gain the flexibility to choose your own supports. However, the NDIS requires certain criteria be met for your purchases to qualify as “reasonable and necessary.” Use this checklist from the NDIS Self-management resources to determine if you can use your funds for a particular support.

If you can answer YES to the following questions, you’re likely able to buy it with your NDIS funds:

1. Will this support help you reach the goals in your NDIS plan?

• Every support you purchase should relate directly to your NDIS plan’s goals and assist with your disability. Ensure each item or service aligns with your specific goals and plan budget.

2. Is the support reasonably priced and good value?

• Look for value-for-money options that fit your budget, considering both affordable and higher-quality support options. This approach maximizes your funding and allows flexibility.

3. Can you afford it within your support budget?

• Your funds need to last for the entire plan duration. Creating a budget early on helps you track and manage funds, making it easier to adjust supports as needed.

4. Will it help you connect with your community or build relationships?

• Ideally, the support should aid you in joining community activities, fostering friendships, or enhancing family relationships. It could also help in pursuing or maintaining employment.

5. Is this something the NDIS should fund, not other government services?

• Ensure the support falls under the NDIS, not other services such as health care, education, or public transportation. The NDIS only funds supports not provided by other government agencies.

6. Is the support safe?

• All purchases must be safe and legal. They should neither endanger you nor pose a risk to others.

Supports Not Funded by the NDIS

The NDIS follows specific rules for what won’t be funded. A support will not be funded if it:

• Is unrelated to your disability,
• Duplicates support covered elsewhere in your NDIS plan,
• Covers standard living costs not related to disability support, or
• Poses a risk to you or others.

Following these guidelines helps ensure your self-managed funds are used effectively and in line with NDIS requirements. With a bit of planning, you can maximise the benefits and flexibility self-management offers.

If you want to learn more about Self-Management, read our resource Tips for Successfully Self-Managing Your NDIS Plan